Methods for administration of cosmetic and medical agents

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure provides improved methods for administration or application of cosmetic or medical agents, including, but not limited to, dermal fillers and Botox-type injectable agents.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application is a Divisional of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 15/361,931 filed 28 Nov. 2016, which is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety for all purposes.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates to a field of cosmetic treatment procedures andcertain medical procedures, and more specifically to improved methodsfor administration of cosmetic agents, including, but not limited to,Botox-type injectable agents and dermal fillers.

BACKGROUND

A conventional method of cosmetic procedures involving an administrationof a cosmetic agent, such as a Botox-type cosmetic agent and/or a dermalfiller, or certain medical procedures involving the administration of amedical agent such as a Botox-type medical agent, is to have a patientseated and reclined. This allows for comfort and support for thepatient, as well as proper lighting and the least amount of distractionfor the administering physician. However, this results in relaxation ofthe muscles, which may hide any lines or sagging, as well as muscledefinition. This creates an issue of where to treat, since the target ofsuch cosmetic and medical procedures are such lines, sagging muscles ormuscles in need of medical attention.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The present disclosure provides a method of administration of at least afirst cosmetic agent to a patient in need thereof, comprisingadministration of the at least a first cosmetic agent to the patientwhile the patient is in a standing position. Such methods are alsoreferred to herein as “cosmetic procedures” or “cosmetic methods.” Incertain embodiments, the at least a first cosmetic agent is a dermalfiller. In some embodiments the dermal filler comprises hyaluronic acid.Examples of such dermal fillers include, but are not limited to,Juvederm®, Juvederm® Voluma XC, Juvederm® Ultra XC, Juvederm® Ultra PlusXC, Juvederm® Volbella®, Restylane®, Restylane® Silk, and Belotero®. Inother embodiments the dermal filler comprises poly-L-lactic acid. Anon-limiting example of such a dermal filler is Sculptra® Aesthetic. Inyet other embodiments the dermal filler comprises collagen andpolymethylmethacrylate. Examples of such dermal fillers include, but arenot limited to, Bellafill® and ArteFill®. In additional embodiments anycombination of the above dermal fillers can be administered to thepatient.

In further embodiments the at least a first cosmetic agent stimulatescollagen production in the patient. Examples of such cosmetic agentsinclude, but are not limited to, Radiesse® and Radiesse® (+). In stillfurther embodiments the at least a first cosmetic agent comprises abotulinum toxin type A. Examples of such cosmetic agents include, butare not limited to, Botox®, Dysport®, or Xeomin®. In additionalembodiments the at least a first cosmetic agent comprises platelet richplasma. In particular embodiments, the platelet rich plasma is obtainedfrom the patient. In another embodiment the at least a first cosmeticagent is at least a first polydioxanone (PDO) thread. In certainembodiments the at least a first PDO thread is a smooth thread or abarbed thread. In other embodiments the at least a first cosmetic agentis ultrasound or a micro-needling system.

Some of the cosmetic procedures or methods disclosed herein compriseadministration of a combination of two or more cosmetic agents, alsoreferred to as a plurality of cosmetic agents, for example at least afirst cosmetic agent and at least a second cosmetic agent, to thepatient. In some of these embodiments the at least a first cosmeticagent is a dermal filler and the at least a second cosmetic agentcomprises Botulinum toxin type A, the at least a first cosmetic agent isa dermal filler and the at least a second cosmetic agent comprisesplatelet rich plasma, or the at least a first cosmetic agent comprisesplatelet rich plasma and the at least a second cosmetic agent is amicro-needling system.

In certain embodiments the at least a first cosmetic agent isadministered to any area of the patient, including, but not limited to,a facial area, neck area, hand area, breast area, head area, leg area orbutt area of the patient. In particular embodiments the at least a firstcosmetic agent is administered to a facial area of the patient. In suchembodiments the at least a first cosmetic agent is administered to anypart of the facial area of the patient, including, but not limited to,at least a first lip, at least a first cheek, at least a first eyebrow,a nose, a chin or a jaw of the patient. In further embodiments the atleast a first cosmetic agent is administered to two or more areas of thepatient, or in other words a plurality of areas of the patient.

The present disclosure also provides a method of treating a medicalcondition in a patient, comprising administration a therapeuticallyeffective amount of a medical agent, such as a Botox-type injectablemedical agent, to the patient while the patient is in a standingposition. As used herein, the term “therapeutically effective amount”means an amount, dosage or regimen that results in the prevention,arrest or amelioration of the medical condition. In certain embodimentsthe Botox-type injectable medical agent is Botox®, Dysport®, or Xeomin®.In further embodiments the medical condition is a migraine headache,tension-type headache, chronic headache, cluster headache, occipitalneuralgia, cervical dystonia, blepharospasm, or pain management forfibromyalgia, increased muscle stiffness in elbow, wrist and fingermuscles in a patient with upper limb spasticity, or increased musclestiffness in calf muscles in a patient with lower limb spasticity. Inadditional embodiments a therapeutically effective amount of a secondmedical agent is administered to the patient. In some embodiments acombination or plurality of medical agents is administered to thepatient.

The present disclosure additionally provides a method of treating aheadache in a patient, comprising administration a therapeuticallyeffective amount of a medical agent, for example a Botox-type injectablemedical agent, to the patient while the patient is in a standingposition. In certain embodiments the Botox-type injectable medical agentis Botox®, Dysport®, Xeom in®, or any combination thereof. In particularembodiments the headache is a migraine headache, tension-type headache,chronic headache, cluster headache, or occipital neuralgia.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The following drawings form part of the present specification and areincluded to further demonstrate certain aspects of this disclosure. Thisdisclosure may be better understood by reference to one or more of thesedrawings and their corresponding descriptions below, in combination withthe detailed description of specific embodiments presented herein.

FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B: A first patient is shown in the sitting (FIG. 1A)and standing (FIG. 1B) position, highlighting the difference inappearance of the nasolabial folds in the sitting and standing position.

FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B: A second patient is shown in the sitting (FIG. 2A)and standing (FIG. 2B) position, highlighting the difference inappearance of the nasolabial folds in the sitting and standing position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This disclosure provides improved methods for an administration of oneor more cosmetic agents in a wide variety of cosmetic procedures, aswell as improved methods for an administration of one or more medicalagents in certain medical procedures. Specifically, by administering oneor more cosmetic or medical agents while a patient is in a standingposition results in greater accuracy in targeting and treating the linesand sagging muscles underlying the undesired anatomic details of thepatient, as well as targeting and treating the muscles underlyingcertain medical conditions.

Age and gravity are the two worst enemies of perfect skin. Volume loss,bone loss and gravitational descend are the main effects. Structuralvolume loss is the loss of the shape of the face, namely, the volume ofthe face. As the skin sags and cellulite is erased, once plump facialfeatures may become hollow and unattractive. Harsh sun rays, stress,child rearing and much more can cause tensed muscles, which causes thevolume loss.

Functional loss, however, specifically references change in the muscles.As time passes, skin begins to sag, muscles becomes hidden and facialvolume changes. The combination of these results in giving the face andother body features a different semblance. This functional loss, to someextent, can be reversed using a selection of cosmetic agents such asmuscle relaxers and/or dermal fillers. In addition, certain medicalconditions, including, but not limited to, migraine and other types ofheadaches, pain management, and muscle stiffness or spasms, can betreated using medical agents such as muscle relaxers.

In conventional methods of administration of cosmetic agents, such asdermal fillers and Botox-type agents, as well as administration ofmedical agents, such as Botox-type agents, the patient is seated andreclined, mainly for the comfort of the patient. However, this presentscertain issues for the treating physician, as the muscles of the patientare relaxed. This makes it difficult for the physician to see exactlyhow the skin and muscles fall. The result of this relaxation is that thetrue sagging and hollowness in volume is hidden, and the musculatureconnected with certain medical issues may be difficult to identify. Thishinders the physician in selecting exactly where and how to inject. Theselection and injection process is more effective when the administeringphysician has a clear view of all features to be addressed. In sittingand reclining, the muscles are relaxed and do not contour to the faceand other anatomical features in the same way as when the muscles areengaged.

This disclosure overcomes these and other shortcomings of currentcosmetic and medical techniques for administration of cosmetic andmedical agents by administration of these cosmetic and medical agentswhile the patient is in a standing position. Based on body hemodynamicsand kinetic physiology, the functional loss and structural volume lossto be addressed by the physician is more pronounced when the patient isstanding. This means that sagging, lines, wrinkles and stiff or spasmingmuscles are optimal and most visible to the physician. When muscles andbone structure can be clearly seen, it gives the physician a uniqueperspective on how to treat the problem areas most effectively. Longlasting results, although temporarily somewhat uncomfortable, arepreferred.

Volume loss, as well as stiff or spasming muscles, are more pronouncedwhen the patient is in an erect standing position. When standing face toface with the patient, the physician can see exactly where the cosmeticor medical product or agent is needed, how much is needed, what kind isneeded, and how best to administer the product. Never losing sight ofwhere wrinkles, volume loss and structural or functional loss occursresults in greater ease for the physician, and greater satisfaction forthe patient.

I. Cosmetic Agents

A number of different cosmetic agents, for example chemical agents,mechanical agents and physical agents, as well as combinations of thesecosmetic agents, can be used in the practice of the claimed cosmeticprocedures. Although certain of these cosmetic agents are described ingreater detail below, inclusion of these agents is not meant to beexhaustive of the cosmetic agents that can be used in this disclosure.

A. Botulinum Toxin Agents

A number of cosmetic agents comprising botulinum toxin type A areavailable for use in a variety of cosmetic procedures. In general theseagents are referred to as “Botox-type injectables.” Botulinum toxin typeA is an acetylcholine release inhibitor and a neuromuscular blockingagent. Botulinum toxin type A blocks neuromuscular transmission bybinding to acceptor sites on motor nerve terminals, entering the nerveterminals, and inhibiting the release of acetylcholine. Botulinum toxintype A produces partial chemical denervation of the muscle, resulting ina localized reduction in muscle activity.

The most popular of these agents is Botox® (onabotulinumtoxinA), whichis purified botulinum toxin type A, produced from fermentation of thebacterium Clostridium botulinum type A, Hall Strain, and is intended forintramuscular use. It is purified from the culture solution by dialysisand a series of acid precipitations to a complex consisting of theneurotoxin, and several accessory proteins.

Another Botox-type injectable cosmetic agent is Dysport®(abobotulinumtoxinA), which in addition to abobotulinumtoxinA containshuman albumin and lactose. Dysport® is a purified neurotoxin type Acomplex produced by fermentation of the bacterium Clostridium botulinumtype A, Hall Strain, and is intended for intramuscular use. It ispurified from the culture supernatant by a series of precipitation,dialysis, and chromatography steps. The neurotoxin complex is composedof the neurotoxin, hemagglutinin proteins and non-toxinnon-hemagglutinin protein. Dysport® is a prescription injection thattemporarily improves the look of moderate to severe frown lines withoutchanging the face's overall appearance. The untreated facial musclesstill work normally, allowing the patient to freely show facialexpressions, such as smiling, in untreated areas. For up to four months,Dysport® works to block the signal from the nerve to the muscles,resulting in a reduction of muscle activity and temporarily preventingcontraction of the muscles that cause frown lines. In general patientsshould not be treated with Dysport® more frequently than every 90 days.

An additional Botox-type injectable cosmetic agent is Xeomin®(incobotulinumtoxinA). Xeomin® is botulinum toxin type A produced fromfermentation of Hall strain Clostridium botulinum serotype A, and isintended for intramuscular use. The botulinum toxin complex is purifiedfrom the culture supernatant, and then the active ingredient isseparated from the proteins (hemagglutinins and non-hemagglutinins)through a series of steps yielding the active neurotoxin withoutaccessory proteins. Xeomin® contains botulinum toxin type A, humanalbumin and sucrose. Xeomin® is a prescription medication used in facialaesthetics to temporarily improve the appearance of moderate to severeglabellar frown lines between the eyes (glabellar lines) in adults. Whena person squints or frowns, the muscles between the brows contract,causing the skin to furrow and fold. These lines that occur due tofacial mimics are referred to as dynamic lines. Over time, as skin agesand loses some of its elasticity, these repeated contractions can causepersistent frown lines. Xeomin® is used in facial aesthetic treatment totreat dynamic lines like glabellar frown lines by acting on nerveendings in muscles to prevent muscle fibers from contracting. Byreducing these contractions, Xeomin® can temporarily reduce the frownlines on the forehead between the eyes.

B. Injectable Dermal Fillers

Certain cosmetic agents are known as injectable dermal fillers, ordermal fillers, and can be made with a variety of different chemicalagents, including, but not limited to, hyaluronic acid (HA), calciumhydroxylapatite, poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), and polymethylmethacrylate(PMMA). Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance that isnormally present in skin. It helps keep skin plump and hydrated. HAfillers are typically soft and gel-like. The results are temporary,lasting 6 to 12 months or longer before the body gradually and naturallyabsorbs the particles. Certain HA fillers are infused with lidocaine tohelp minimize discomfort during and after treatment. HA fillerscurrently approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration(FDA) include Juvederm® Ultra, Juvederm® Ultra Plus, Juvederm® Voluma®XC, Juvederm® Ultra XC, Juvederm® Ultra Plus XC, Juvederm® Volbella®,Restylane®, Restylane® Silk, or Belotero®.

Juvederm® Voluma® XC is a sterile, biodegradable, non-pyrogenic,viscoelastic, clear, colorless, homogenized gel implant, comprisingcrosslinked hyaluronic acid (HA) produced by Streptococcus equi bacteriaand 0.3% lidocaine in a physiologic buffer. Juvéderm® Voluma® XCinjectable gel is indicated for deep (subcutaneous and/orsupraperiosteal) injection for cheek augmentation, to correctage-related volume deficit in the mid-face in adults over the age of 21.

Juvederm® Ultra and Juvederm® Ultra Plus are sterile, biodegradable,non-pyrogenic, viscoelastic, clear, colorless, homogeneous gel implants,comprising cross-linked hyaluronic acid (HA) produced by Streptococcusspecies of bacteria, and a physiologic buffer. Juvederm® Ultra XC,Juvederm® Ultra Plus XC and Juvederm® Volbella® XC are sterile,biodegradable, non-pyrogenic, viscoelastic, clear, colorless,homogeneous gel implants, comprising cross-linked hyaluronic acid (HA)produced by Streptococcus species of bacteria, and 0.3% lidocaine in aphysiologic buffer. Juvederm® Ultra XC and Juvederm® Ultra Plus XC arean effective and safe, non-surgical treatment used to smooth the skinand return facial contours to their naturally youthful and healthystate. They stimulate collagen production in skin and retention ofwater, instantly restoring unwanted lines, enhancing lips, cheeks, andjaw-line as well as other areas. Juvederm® Ultra XC provides versatilityin contouring and volumizing facial wrinkles and folds. Juvederm® UltraPlus XC is a more highly cross-linked, robust formula for the volumizingand correction of deeper folds and wrinkles. Juvéderm® Ultra XC has alsobeen approved by the FDA for lip treatments. Juvéderm® Ultra smooths outand fills lips, giving a very natural look. Oftentimes, patients onlyneed one treatment in order to receive the results they desire.Juvéderm® activates almost instantly in the applied areas, and theresults are long lasting, usually up to about a year. Juvéderm®treatments are also effective for rolling and boxcar acne scars, as wellas other types of acne scars, such as ice pick, hypertonic and keloidacne scars. The number of Juvéderm® treatments that a person willrequire will depend on the severity of the scars, as well as a person'sfacial anatomy. Patients tend to see physical results from Juvéderm®right away following the injections, but it usually takes a few monthsto see lasting results. When a patient receives Juvéderm® treatments, anumbing cream will be applied to decrease the pain associated withJuvéderm® shots, which is usually very minimal. Ice may also be appliedbefore the injections are given. After the injections have beenadministered, ice is typically reapplied, and minimal bruising may takeplace for two to seven days. Juvederm® Volbella® is designed for lipaugmentation and correction of perioral rhytids, wrinkles that formaround the mouth. It has also been found to boost fullness in the lipsand soften perioral lines. It has been proven to correct severe facialwrinkles, such as laugh lines, and is ideal for deep injection in thecheek to restore volume loss.

Restylane® is a gel of hyaluronic acid generated by Streptococcusspecies of bacteria, chemically crosslinked with 1,4-butanedioldiglycidyl ether (BDDE), stabilized and suspended in phosphate bufferedsaline at pH 7. Restylane® Silk is the same as Restylane®, except thatis further comprises 0.3% lidocaine. Restylane® adds volume and fullnessto the skin to correct moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds,such as the lines from the nose to the corners of the mouth (nasolabialfolds). Restylane® is also FDA approved for lip enhancement in patients21 years of age and older, and can be used to treat marionette lines(the area from the corner of the mouth to the jaw line), and the cornersof the mouth. Restylane® Silk is the first and only FDA-approved productspecifically designed for subtle lip enhancement and the smoothing ofwrinkles and lines around the mouth in patients over 21 years of age.Restylane® Silk is specifically formulated for lip enhancement andtreating wrinkles surrounding the mouth.

Belotero® and Belotero® Balance are sterile, biodegradable,non-pyrogenic, viscoelastic, clear, colorless, homogenized gel implants,comprising hyaluronic acid generated by Streptococcus species ofbacteria, chemically crosslinked with 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether(BDDE) in two consecutively executed reactions and reconstituted in aphysiologic buffer at pH 7. Belotero® is a prescription injection thatis approved to temporarily smooth out and fill in moderate-to-severenasolabial folds (the folds or wrinkles that go from the side of thenose to the corner of the mouth). Belotero® completely integrates intothe skin tissue. While some fillers are designed to rebuild facialvolume and structure, Belotero® specifically treats moderate-to-severeetched-in lines and wrinkles, such as vertical lip lines above andaround the lips.

Calcium hydroxylapatite is also a naturally occurring substance, foundprimarily in bones. When used in a filler, the calcium particles arevery tiny, almost microscopic, and suspended in a smooth gel. Theconsistency of a calcium hydroxylapatite filler is typically thickerthan that of a hyaluronic acid filler, and the results will typicallylast longer as well, about 12 months for most patients. Calciumhydroxylapatite is also reported to help stimulate natural collagenproduction, and it is typically used for deeper lines and wrinkles.Calcium hydroxylapatite fillers currently approved by the FDA includeRadiesse® and Radiesse® (+). Radiesse® is a sterile, non-pyrogenic,semi-solid, cohesive implant, comprising calcium hydroxylapatitesuspended in a gel carrier of sterile water, glycerin and sodiumcarboxymethylcellulose. Radiesse® (+) is the same as Radiesse®, exceptthat it further comprises 0.3% lidocaine hydrochloride. Radiesse®temporarily adds volume to help smooth moderate to severe facialwrinkles and folds, such as nasolabial folds (the creases that extendfrom the corner of the nose to the corner of the mouth). Radiesse® isinjected through a small needle and placed under the skin. Immediately,Radiesse® works to add volume under the skin and over time, the benefitsof Radiesse® continue by naturally stimulating the body's own naturalcollagen. The natural results have been shown to last a year or more inmany patients, making the treatment results both immediate and longlasting.

Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is a biocompatible, biodegradable syntheticsubstance. It has been used for many years in a number of medicaldevices, such as dissolvable stitches. Poly-L-lactic acid fillers areconsidered “semi-permanent,” as the results typically last more than 2years, and can help stimulate collagen production. As a thicker fillermaterial, Poly-L-lactic acid is typically used to treat deeper facialwrinkles. Poly-L-lactic acid fillers currently approved by the FDAinclude Sculptra® Aesthetic. Sculptra® Aesthetic comprises PLLA,carboxymethylcellulose and non-pyrogenic mannitol. Sculptra® Aestheticprovides a natural-looking appearance that is gradual and long-lastingby replacing collagen, restoring the look of fullness to shallow anddeep facial wrinkles and folds. A full treatment consists of 3 injectionsessions over the duration of a few months, which can vary per patient.Within the deep dermis, the skin's structure is reinforced as Sculptra®Aesthetic helps to replace lost collagen. This reinforced collagenstructure provides a foundation that gradually restores the look offullness of shallow to deep facial wrinkles and folds that has beendepleted over time. Sculptra® Aesthetic gradually and subtly correctsthese facial wrinkles. Results can last more than 2 years.

Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) is a synthetic, biocompatible substancethat has been used in medicine for much of the last century. When usedin dermal fillers, PMMA takes the form of a microsphere that remainsbeneath the skin to provide continued support, in certain embodimentsfor up to five years. PMMA fillers generally also contain collagen, anaturally occurring substance in the skin that provides structure andfirmness. PMMA fillers currently approved by the FDA include ArteFill®,which is named Bellafill® in the United States. ArteFill® and Bellafill®are comprised of 80% purified bovine collagen, 20% PMMA microspheres,and 0.3% lidocaine. Bellafill® has been approved by the FDA as a safeand effective treatment—for up to 5 years—that produces younger-lookingskin by promoting the growth of the body's own collagen. Bellafill®promotes firmer, smoother skin, thus diminishing the appearance of scarsand producing an overall clearer complexion. Bellafill® replaces lostvolume in the skin below the wrinkle for correction that is immediateand lasting. It restores rather than just fills for natural enduringresults. In clinical studies, efficacy was observed out to 12 months,although the primary efficacy endpoint was at 6 months.

C. Additional Cosmetic Agents

Another cosmetic agent used in certain cosmetic procedures arepolydioxanone (PDO) threads, which can either be smooth or barbed.Smooth threads are generally inserted vertically and horizontally bymeans of a cannula. The mesh pattern of the threads serves as thefoundation for new collagen production as the skin reacts to the suturesby repairing itself around them. Barbed threads are generally used toproduce more immediate and dramatic results. The threads are insertedunder the skin and grip the skin underneath. When these threads arepulled, they tighten the skin from within, resulting in an instant lift.Again, collagen production is stimulated as the skin heals itself aroundthe threads.

In some cosmetic procedures ultrasound is used as a non-invasivetreatment specifically FDA-cleared to improve lines and wrinkles on thedécolletage. One ultrasound therapy agent is Ultherapy®, which usesfocused ultrasound to stimulate collagen deep within the skin, with nodowntime required.

Additional cosmetic procedures use a micro-needling system. One suchsystem is Dermapen®, which is an automated micro-needling system with adisposable tip cartridge that uses 12 micro-needles to vertically stampthe skin at high speed. This causes micro-injuries to the skin, therebystimulating new collagen and elastin production. These micro-injuriesencourage and harness the body's innate ability to regrow and repair theskin through normal physiological processes.

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) can also be used in certain cosmeticprocedures, for example facial rejuvenation. Platelets and plasma arecomponents of the blood are extracted from a blood sample by placing itin a spinning centrifuge, which works to separate the platelets andplasma out of the blood. Platelets are cells that work to repair damage,so when platelet rich plasma is introduced to wrinkled, scarred oruneven skin tissue, collagen growth is stimulated along with theregeneration of skin tissue, resulting in more youthful, vibrant,healthy-looking skin. PRP from a patient's own blood sample is injectedinto the skin, similar to how a dermal filler would be. The plateletswork to repair damaged or wrinkled skin by producing more collagen,causing the skin to regenerate. New skin means that fine lines andwrinkles are reduced, along with dark circles and puffiness under theeyes, and uneven or dull skin tone.

II. Cosmetic Procedures

A wide variety of cosmetic procedures utilize Botox-type injectableagents, injectable dermal fillers, as well as additional cosmeticagents, or combinations thereof. Certain of these cosmetic proceduresare detailed below.

A. Treatment with Botox-Type Injectable Agents

A variety of different cosmetic procedures utilize administration ofcosmetic agents comprising botulinum toxin type A. For example, theseagents can be used in adults for temporary improvement in the appearanceof moderate to severe glabellar lines associated with corrugator and/orprocerus muscle activity, as well as temporary improvement in theappearance of moderate to severe lateral canthal lines associated withorbicularis oculi activity. Additionally, cosmetic agents comprisingbotulinum toxin type A can be used to treat cervical dystonia (CD),increased muscle stiffness in elbow, wrist and finger muscles in adultswith upper limb spasticity, increased muscle stiffness in calf musclesin children 2 years of age or older with lower limb spasticity, andblepharospasm.

Botox-type injectable agents comprise a purified botulinum toxin type Aprotein that causes tensed muscles to relax. Originally this was usefulin the treatment of many neurological conditions. Doctors using thisgroundbreaking medicine noticed that, as a side effect, deep lines inpatients' foreheads softened and their skin smoothed out. Since then,these agents have been used to successfully treat wrinkles and facialcreases. Botox-type injectable agents are most often used on linesaround the eyes (also known as “crow's feet”) or frown and foreheadlines.

Botox-type injectable agents are injected with a fine needle intospecific muscles just under the skin and do not require anesthesia,resulting in only minor discomfort, not pain. In general, results areobtained within a day or two but the full effect may take up to 2-3weeks to show and will generally last 4-6 months before a repeattreatment is recommended. The reason repeat treatment may be recommendedis that muscle action eventually returns and the wrinkles begin toreappear. As treatments are continued the return of wrinkles or linesgenerally becomes less severe over time since the muscles are beingvirtually trained to relax.

For years, Botox® has been approved to help control and reduce theappearance of wrinkles on the forehead, help reduce migraine headaches,and alleviate excessive sweating. The FDA has also approved Botox® fortreating canthal lines, or crow's feet, the wrinkles that form at thecorners of the eyes. For patient's seeking a smoother appearance, Botox®can minimize the appearance of canthal lines for three to six months.Botox® can also be used for a non-surgical neck lift. Injecting theneck's platysma muscle, the thickness and position of which can effect aperson's visible signs of aging, relaxes it and reduces the appearanceof neck banding or “turkey neck.” Botox® injections can also be used fornon-surgical breast job, also known as Breastox, increasing the cup sizeand perkiness of the breasts. Injecting Botox® into the pectoral musclescauses them to relax and places the burden on the shoulder and chestmuscles. The effect is the appearance of having larger, perkier breasts,with results lasting around 6 months.

Additionally, Botox® may be useful in reducing or eliminating theappearance of large facial pores or healing acne scars. The expansion ofthe pores and shaping of other facial aberrations are controlled bysmall muscles. Botox® helps to both relax these muscles and tighten theskin, resulting in the desired lessening or elimination of large pores.Small amounts of Botox® are injected directly under the skin, in theupper-most layers. This can most commonly be done along the cheeks,nose, and forehead. Also, excessive sweating, an annoying conditionwhich can also make a person smell bad, can also be effectively treatedusing Botox®. Sweat glands have to receive a certain chemical signal inorder to produce sweat. Botox® blocks this signal, thus reducing theamount of sweat that a person exudes. Botox® is injected into the partsof the body that regularly sweat a lot, such as the hands. And whilesweating is stopped in the injection locations, the body can still sweatelsewhere, which is essential because sweating helps keep the body cool.

Facial Slimming and jaw reduction can be accomplished by applying Botox®to the masseter (chewing muscle), causing the muscle to become smallerand therefore resulting in a thinner facial appearance. When combinedwith facial fillers, which can be used to enhance the cheekbones, acontoured look can be achieved. If the jawline is too masculine, thismethod can also be used to reduce the jawline for a softer, morefeminine appearance.

B. Treatment with Dermal Fillers

Certain cosmetic procedures utilize dermal fillers, also calledinjectable dermal fillers. Volume loss in the hands can be treated usingdermal fillers. Radiesse® is the first and only FDA-approved product tocorrect volume loss in hands. While other dermal fillers provideexcellent results for the face, Radiesse® has proven to be the mostsuccessful at restoring volume in the hands, with the longest lastingresults. Using a fine needle, Radiesse® is injected into the hands,resulting in smooth, wrinkle-free, and most importantly, ageless hands.Radiesse can also be used to reduce cellulite by injection intocellulite dimples, causing he skin to appear fuller and smoother.

A non-surgical nose job can be accomplished by injecting a dermalfiller, for example Restylane®, Bellafill® or Juvederm®, into theprecise area of the nose to hide bumps and contour areas for the desiredshape. Dermal fillers can also be used to create fuller lips, or one lip(generally the top lip) larger than the other lip. Additional cosmeticprocedures that utilize a dermal filler (or a combination of dermalfillers) include cheek augmentation, chin sculpting, correction of darkundereye circles, and repair of “crow's feet.”

C. Treatment with Other Cosmetic Agents

Certain cosmetic procedures utilize other cosmetic agents, which aredetailed above. A breast lift (termed a “Vampire BreastLift”) isaccomplished by injecting PRP into the breast tissue to encouragemultipotent stem cells to repair and increase fatty tissue, resulting infuller and younger-looking breasts. Scar repair (termed “Vampire ScarRepair”) is accomplished by injecting PRP into the skin at the locationof the scar to rejuvenate and heal the skin, increase collagen, andgenerate new blood flow. Hair growth (termed “Vampire Hair Growth”) isaccomplished by injecting PRP into the scalp and hairline to reversehair miniaturization and stimulate the growth of follicles.

Ultherapy® (or in certain cases dermal fillers) can be used to perform anon-surgical Brazilian Butt Lift. Ultherapy® is used around the buttocksto help achieve greater contour and stimulate collagen growth for afuller appearance. Dermal fillers can fill pockets and wrinkles, reducecellulite, and provide a smoother and more shapely appearance to thebuttocks.

D. Combination Treatments

Certain cosmetic procedures utilize a combination of two or morecosmetic agents to produce the desired effect. For example, a face lift(termed a “Vampire FaceLift”) is accomplished using a hyaluronic dermalfiller and PRP. A facial (termed a “Vampire Facial”) is accomplished byinjecting PRP with a micro-needling technique into the forehead andaround the cheeks to rejuvenate the skin. A non-surgical brow lift canbe accomplished using Botox-type agents, dermal fillers, Ultherapy®, ora combination thereof.

III. Medical Agents

A number of different medical agents can be used in the practice of theclaimed medical procedures. Although certain of these medical agents aredescribed in greater detail below, inclusion of these agents is notmeant to be exhaustive of the medical agents that can be used in thisdisclosure.

A number of medical agents comprising botulinum toxin type A areavailable for use in a variety of medical procedures. In general theseagents are referred to as “Botox-type injectables.” Botulinum toxin typeA is an acetylcholine release inhibitor that blocks neuromusculartransmission by binding to acceptor sites on motor nerve terminals,entering the nerve terminals, and inhibiting the release ofacetylcholine. Botulinum toxin type A produces partial chemicaldenervation of the muscle, resulting in a localized reduction in muscleactivity.

The most popular of these medical agents is Botox® (onabotulinumtoxinA),which is purified botulinum toxin type A, produced from fermentation ofthe bacterium Clostridium botulinum type A, Hall Strain, and is intendedfor intramuscular use. It is purified from the culture solution bydialysis and a series of acid precipitations to a complex consisting ofthe neurotoxin, and several accessory proteins.

Other Botox-type injectable medical agents include, but are not limitedto, Dysport® (abobotulinumtoxinA) and Xeomin® (incobotulinumtoxinA).

IV. Medical Procedures

A wide variety of medical procedures utilize Botox-type injectableagents to treat a variety of different medical conditions, as detailedbelow.

Medical agents comprising botulinum toxin type A can be used to treatmigraine and other types of headaches, including, but not limited to,tension-type, chronic, cluster headaches, and occipital neuralgia,cervical dystonia (CD), blepharospasm, and pain management forfibromyalgia and increased muscle stiffness in elbow, wrist and fingermuscles in adults with upper limb spasticity, increased muscle stiffnessin calf muscles in children 2 years of age or older with lower limbspasticity.

Botox-type injectable medical agents comprise a purified botulinum toxintype A protein that causes tensed muscles to relax. These medical agentsare injected with a fine needle into specific muscles just under theskin and do not require anesthesia, resulting in only minor discomfort,not pain. In general, results are obtained within a day or two but thefull effect may take up to 2-3 weeks to show and will generally last 4-6months before a repeat treatment is recommended. In the treatment ofcertain conditions, repeated injections over the span of weeks, forexample 10, 12 or 15 weeks or longer is generally recommended. Thereason repeat treatment may be recommended is that muscle actioneventually returns. As treatments are continued the muscles are beingvirtually trained to relax.

EXAMPLES Example 1

Injectable fillers are a transforming, modern way to enhance a patient'saesthetics through plumping up surface depressions, furrows, andwrinkles, such as the nasolabial folds. The universal technique ofinjecting fillers has been implemented in a way of having a patientseated, which as a result relaxes a patient's muscles, essentiallymaking the lines less prominent. In this Example, pictures are providedof a patient in a seated (FIG. 1A) and standing (FIG. 1B) position toobserve any difference of prominence, specifically in this case, of thenasolabial folds. These pictures were taken from a consistent distanceand in similar lighting. The pictures were also taken within the sametime frame, and the posture of the patient is consistent in both thestanding and sitting position.

Three principle factors that play a role in the reduced prominence ofthe volume loss of the nasolabial folds in the sitting posture include:the lack of the effects of gravity; the relaxation of muscles; and therelaxation of the spine, which adds the element of a kyphotic posture.

Three principle factors that play a role in the upright standingposition include: the increasing effects of gravity; the erection of thespine along with the head; and the hemodynamic effects of the body. Thepatient having their spine and head erect allows for accuracy ofsymmetry when observing the face. The hemodynamics effects are crucialnot only medically but aesthetically as well. Having a patient standupright induces an upright hemodynamic response causing more augmentedbody loss.

In FIG. 1A, Patient A is in the sitting position, exemplifying therelaxing of her muscles, viewing the injector. In FIG. 1B, Patient A isin the standing position, and the augmented volume loss of thenasolabial folds is more notable as compared to when Patient A is in thesitting position (FIG. 1A).

Having the patient in the standing position enables the injector to fillthe problematic areas with volume loss more efficiently. In a standing,upright position, the augmentation of volume loss of the nasolabialfolds, or other areas needing treatment, are more visible, ensuring anaccurate injection.

Example 2

In this Example, pictures are provided of a second patient in a seated(FIG. 2A) and standing (FIG. 2B) position to observe any difference ofprominence, specifically in this case, of the nasolabial folds. Thesepictures were taken from a consistent distance and in similar lighting.The pictures were also taken within the same time frame, and the postureof the patient is consistent in both the standing and sitting position.

In FIG. 2A, Patient B is in the sitting position, exemplifying therelaxing of her muscles, viewing the injector. In FIG. 2B, Patient B isin the standing position, notably exhibiting a more prominent leftnasolabial fold as compared to when Patient B is in the sitting position(FIG. 1A).

Once again, having the patient in the standing position enables theinjector to fill the problematic areas with volume loss moreefficiently. In a standing, upright position, the augmentation of volumeloss of the nasolabial folds, or other areas needing treatment, are morevisible, ensuring an accurate injection.

The use of the word “a” or “an” when used in conjunction with the term“comprising” in the claims and/or the specification may mean “one,” butit is also consistent with the meaning of “one or more,” “at least one,”and “one or more than one.” The use of the term “or” in the claims isused to mean “and/or” unless explicitly indicated to refer toalternatives only or the alternatives are mutually exclusive, althoughthe disclosure supports a definition that refers to only alternativesand “and/or.” Throughout this application, the term “about” is used toindicate that a value includes the inherent variation of error for thedevice, the method being employed to determine the value, or thevariation that exists among the study subjects.

As used in this specification and claim(s), the words “comprising” (andany form of comprising, such as “comprise” and “comprises”), “having”(and any form of having, such as “have” and “has”), “including” (and anyform of including, such as “includes” and “include”) or “containing”(and any form of containing, such as “contains” and “contain”) areinclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, unrecitedelements or method steps. In embodiments of any of the compositions andmethods provided herein, “comprising” may be replaced with “consistingessentially of” or “consisting of.” As used herein, the phrase“consisting essentially of” requires the specified integer(s) or stepsas well as those that do not materially affect the character or functionof the claimed invention. As used herein, the term “consisting” is usedto indicate the presence of the recited integer (e.g., a feature, anelement, a characteristic, a property, a method/process step or alimitation) or group of integers (e.g., feature(s), element(s),characteristic(s), property or properties, method/process steps orlimitation(s)) only.

The term “or combinations thereof” as used herein refers to allpermutations and combinations of the listed items preceding the term.For example, “A, B, C, or combinations thereof” is intended to includeat least one of: A, B, C, AB, AC, BC, or ABC, and if order is importantin a particular context, also BA, CA, CB, CBA, BCA, ACB, BAC, or CAB.Continuing with this example, expressly included are combinations thatcontain repeats of one or more item or term, such as BB, AAA, AB, BBC,AAABCCCC, CBBAAA, CABABB, and so forth. The skilled artisan willunderstand that typically there is no limit on the number of items orterms in any combination, unless otherwise apparent from the context.

As used herein, words of approximation such as, without limitation,“about,” “substantial” or “substantially” refers to a condition thatwhen so modified is understood to not necessarily be absolute or perfectbut would be considered close enough to those of ordinary skill in theart to warrant designating the condition as being present. The extent towhich the description may vary will depend on how great a change can beinstituted and still have one of ordinary skilled in the art recognizethe modified feature as still having the required characteristics andcapabilities of the unmodified feature. In general, but subject to thepreceding discussion, a numerical value herein that is modified by aword of approximation such as “about” may vary from the stated value byat least ±1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, 12 or 15%, or indicate that a valueincludes the standard deviation of error for the device or method beingemployed to determine the value.

All of the compositions and/or methods disclosed and claimed herein canbe made and executed without undue experimentation in light of thepresent disclosure. While the compositions and methods of thisdisclosure have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, itwill be apparent to those of skill in the art that variations may beapplied to the compositions and/or methods and in the steps or in thesequence of steps of the methods described herein without departing fromthe concept, spirit and scope of this disclosure. More specifically, itwill be apparent that certain agents that are both chemically andphysiologically related may be substituted for the agents describedherein while the same or similar results would be achieved. All suchsimilar substitutes and modifications apparent to those skilled in theart are deemed to be within the spirit, scope and concept of thisdisclosure as defined by the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method comprising: causing a patient having apair of feet to stand on the pair of feet before a provider; and causingan administration of a cosmetic agent to the patient while the patientis standing on the pair of feet before the provider.
 2. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the administration includes inputting the cosmeticagent into the patient while the patient is standing on the pair of feetbefore the provider.
 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the cosmeticagent is input via an injection of the cosmetic agent into the patientwhile the patient is standing on the pair of feet before the provider.4. The method of claim 1, wherein the cosmetic agent is able tostimulate a production of collagen in the patient.
 5. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the cosmetic agent is a first cosmetic agent, andfurther comprising: causing an administration of a second cosmetic agentto the patient while the patient is standing on the pair of feet beforethe provider.
 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the first cosmetic agentand the second cosmetic agent are administered in parallel.
 7. Themethod of claim 5, wherein the first cosmetic agent and the secondcosmetic agent are administered serially.
 8. The method of claim 1,wherein the patient includes a facial area, wherein the cosmetic agentis administered to the facial area.
 9. The method of claim 1, whereinthe cosmetic agent is a chemical agent.
 10. The method of claim 1,wherein the cosmetic agent is a mechanical agent.
 11. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the cosmetic agent is a physical agent.
 12. The methodof claim 1, wherein the patient includes a breast tissue, wherein thecosmetic agent is administered to the breast tissue.
 13. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the patient includes a buttocks area, wherein thecosmetic agent is administered to the buttocks area.
 14. A methodcomprising: causing a patient having a pair of feet to stand on the pairof feet before a provider; and causing an administration of atherapeutically effective amount of a medical agent to the patient whilethe patient is standing on the pair of feet before the provider suchthat the medical agent causes at least one of prevention, arrest, oramelioration of the medical condition.
 15. The method of claim 14,wherein the medical condition is a headache.
 16. The method of claim 14,wherein the medical condition is a neuralgia.
 17. The method of claim14, wherein the medical condition is a dystonia.
 18. The method of claim14, wherein the medical condition is a blepharospasm.
 19. The method ofclaim 14, wherein the medical condition is a fibromyalgia.
 20. Themethod of claim 14, wherein the medical condition is a muscle stiffness.